Backlash from Attack on Titan anime-only fans towards manga readers following the Final Season's conclusion
Attack on Titan: The highly anticipated anime's final season wraps up, sparking contrasting reactions among fans Anime-only viewers express their satisfaction with the story's conclusion, while manga readers face criticism from some quarters
The highly anticipated Attack on Titan anime finally concluded on Saturday, November 4, 2023. After a decade-long journey filled with unexpected twists, the main character, Eren Jaeger, met his demise, bringing the epic saga to a close. Devoted fans immersed themselves in the final moments and expressed gratitude towards creator Hajime Isayama for crafting such a captivating story.
As expected, with such a significant event, fans turned to social media platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) to share their thoughts and opinions. Since the conclusion of the manga, discussions regarding the ending of Attack on Titan have been ongoing. While many manga readers expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, anime-only viewers appeared to have no qualms with it.
Attack on Titan: Anime-only fans seem to enjoy the story’s conclusion
Anime enthusiasts who haven't read the manga failed to comprehend the discontent expressed by manga readers regarding the story's conclusion. They perceived it as a fitting conclusion and found the moment of Eren sacrificing himself for his beloved to be both poignant and complex.
While it is true that Eren's actions resulted in the demise of 80 percent of the population, it is important to acknowledge his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of his people. In addition, fans of the anime appreciated the fact that Mikasa Ackermann ultimately made the difficult decision to end Eren's life despite her deep affection for him. In doing so, she accomplished something that Ymir Fritz was unable to do - liberate herself from her attachment to King Fritz.
Anime-only fans criticized manga readers for giving the impression that the conclusion of the Attack on Titan series was unsatisfactory. They particularly appreciated the moment when Eren Jaeger revealed his vulnerabilities to Armin, showcasing a side of him that had not been previously seen. Throughout the series, Eren had been portrayed as a determined and resilient character who would stop at nothing to achieve his ambitions, which he eventually did. However, he also exposed his true feelings regarding the circumstances and his relationship with Mikasa.
Fans express their thoughts on Eren's heartfelt conversation with Armin (Screengrab via X)
He cherished her with his whole being, yet he understood that their love was not something he could pursue. The choices he had made bore the weight of his people's future. This specific sequence in the Attack on Titan anime was executed flawlessly, evoking strong emotions among fans.
Nonetheless, certain individuals in the anime and manga community raised thought-provoking arguments, which resulted in manga readers finding the ending somewhat lacking.
Curious fans attempted to comprehend the reasons behind manga readers' dissatisfaction with the conclusion (Screengrab via X).
Manga enthusiasts argue that those solely following the manga not only endured lengthy waits for each new chapter but were also bombarded with a multitude of fan theories. According to anime watchers, immersing oneself in implausible conjectures and tirelessly seeking clues while anxiously awaiting the release of new chapters might have contributed to manga readers' dissatisfaction with the ending.
The anime-exclusive fans of Attack on Titan definitely had a great time watching the series until the last episode. They may not give much importance to the opinions of those who read the manga due to the differing views on the ending. Regardless of whether fans enjoyed the ending or not, it's undeniable that Hajime Isayama crafted a story with its highs and lows that will always be cherished by fans.
Keep following for further updates on anime and manga news as we move through 2023.
Editor's P/S
As an Attack on Titan fan, I have mixed feelings about the anime's conclusion. While I understand the disappointment of manga readers who felt that the ending was rushed and unsatisfying, I believe that the anime-only fans had a more positive experience. The anime did a great job of adapting the manga's story, and I think the changes that were made for the anime were mostly for the better.
Overall, I think the Attack on Titan anime is a great adaptation of the manga, and I'm glad that I got to experience it. I'm looking forward to seeing what Hajime Isayama does next.
